Learning to Love Imperfection … In Gems - PART II

Wednesday, February 21, 2024
7:00-8:00pm EST
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guest speaker: Michael Coan

Michael Coan will continue to show us the many ways the imperfections in gemstones can be interesting and often beneficial.

We love gems; why? For some, it’s their sparkle, the color, their own special dance with light.

But how about the overlooked ones, the off-color, included, less-than-perfectly cut gems – they exist, you know, and need a bit of understanding, and explanation.

And can become a very potent money-maker, too. Not every gem has to be gem-quality to shine so it’s wise to know what a non-gem quality gem is.

We will explore an array of gem qualifications with visual examples, but will concentrate on understanding the inherent beauty and possibly appealing qualities of the not-so-perfect ones. How can we “resuscitate” them, help them out and present them in their best light?

Let this be a time to re-define our notions of “beauty.”

Join us for an informative and inspired evening on Wednesday, January 31 from 7-8 pm with Michael Coan.

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Michael Coan

Professor, Jewelry Design Department, Fashion Institute of Technology

Michael Coan has been a student of jewelry for over of 40 years, and his excitement for the industry has not dimmed. With training at the bench, the drawing board, a strong wholesale and retail experience and as owner of a jewelry consulting/appraisal firm, he has searched for the meaningful essence of gems, jewelry and how they interact with humanity. Combining his love of history, an interest in the intrinsic and perceived values of gems and the inherent relationships that are forged between a jewel and its owner, he brings a passionate view to and profound respect for the world of jewelry and design at FIT.